Dispelling Common Dental Myths: Truths for Healthier Smiles
Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 2013/02/01 - Updated: 2025/04/26
Publication Type: Informative
Category Topic: Dental and Teeth - Academic Publications
Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main - Insights, Updates
Synopsis: This article systematically debunks several widespread dental myths, clarifying misconceptions that can negatively impact oral health for people of all ages, including seniors and those with disabilities. It explains that avoiding sweets does not guarantee immunity from cavities, as anyone can develop tooth decay regardless of diet, and emphasizes that the duration sugar remains on teeth is more critical than sugar intake alone. The article warns against excessive brushing, noting that more than two to three times daily can actually harm tooth enamel, and recommends rinsing with water instead. It also dispels the belief that painkillers cure toothaches, stressing that only a dentist can address the underlying cause.
Additionally, it highlights that adults are just as susceptible to cavities as children, particularly due to factors like medication-induced dry mouth and chronic conditions such as diabetes, which can increase the risk of gum disease. Importantly, the article advises maintaining oral hygiene even if gums bleed, recommending gentle brushing and flossing with soft-bristled brushes, and consulting a dentist if bleeding persists. This information is authoritative and helpful, as it is curated and reviewed for accuracy and relevance to the disability community, making it particularly valuable for individuals who may face additional oral health risks due to age, medication, or chronic illness - Disabled World (DW).
Introduction
- Brush your teeth.
- Don't forget to floss!
- Oh, and use fluoride!
While most of us are aware that our oral health is important for our overall health and to maintain our teeth and gums, there are many dental myths that get tossed around. Here are some of them.
Main Content
Myth: I don't eat sweets, so I can't get cavities
Many of us are guilty of believing in this notion that if you choose to not eat sweets, that you rid yourself of cavities. Well sorry to say that we ALL are subject to cavities whether we eat sweets or not. So if you're choosing to lay off sweets simply for the fear of developing a cavity, feel free to indulge once in a while on your favorite treat!
The real link between sugar and tooth decay is the length of time the sugar is in contact with your teeth. After noshing on your favorite candy bar, drink a glass of water to help flush out some of that sugar that is left behind. Drinking water not only helps to rid your teeth of products that may cause your teeth to decay, but it also produces saliva, which is important in maintaining a healthy mouth.
Myth: If I brush more often, then my teeth will be healthier
It is extremely important to maintain your oral health by brushing your teeth at least twice a day. Brushing your teeth helps to remove plaque and tarter, while also caring and strengthening your gums. So why shouldn't we brush our teeth after every meal, every snack, and every hour of every day
When we are brushing our teeth we are in fact brushing our tooth enamel and ridding our enamel of plaque and products that may cause tooth decay. Brushing your teeth two to three times a day is sufficient for ridding your mouth of such products, but brushing your teeth more than three times a day is actually harmful for your teeth. Rinse with water instead and perhaps incorporate the use of mouthwash that helps build enamel.
Myth: I took an aspirin, and my toothache is cured!
Of course aspirin and pain relievers help to mask your pain, whether it is a headache, muscle pain, or even a toothache. While it masks the pain and provides temporary relief, pain relievers do not cure toothaches. Toothaches can be cured by visiting your dentist to uncover the root of the problem.
Myth: Kids get cavities more often and have more tooth decay than adults
No matter your age, everyone's teeth are susceptible to cavities and decay. Sure, kids may be more likely to eat more sweets, skimp on brushing their teeth, or drink sugary sodas and energy drinks, but some adults also may be guilty of these behaviors.
Another reason why adults can develop cavities and tooth decay just as often, if not more often, as children is due to the medications and ailments one may have. Certain prescription medications and ailments cause a person's mouth to produce less saliva. As I mentioned earlier, saliva is important in cleansing our mouths. Also adults with diabetes are more likely to notice gum inflammation, which can lead to periodontal disease.
To make sure you decrease your risk of developing cavities and tooth decay, make sure to maintain a proper oral health regimen and also visit your dentist regularly. This is in fact most important for adults and elderly individuals!
Myth: I can't brush my teeth because my gums are bleeding
When you notice that your gums are bleeding it is especially important to maintain a strict schedule of brushing and flossing. Brushing and flossing can help build strength in your gums and the lack of or step back from your oral hygiene routine can only make matters worse.
Make sure you choose a toothbrush with soft bristles rather than medium or hard, as these may be harmful to your tooth enamel and disrupt your gums. Gently guide floss between your teeth and around your gum line rather than forcing it between your teeth. If your gums continue to bleed, it may be best to make a visit to your dentist.
Insights, Analysis, and Developments
Editorial Note: Good dental health depends not only on professional care but also on the information people trust and use in their daily lives. By correcting persistent myths with clear, factual explanations, this article provides an important service to readers of all ages and abilities. It reminds us that what we think we know about health can sometimes be just as dangerous as what we don't - and that good information is often the first step toward better outcomes - Disabled World (DW).
Author Credentials: Ian is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Disabled World, a leading resource for news and information on disability issues. With a global perspective shaped by years of travel and lived experience, Ian is a committed proponent of the Social Model of Disability-a transformative framework developed by disabled activists in the 1970s that emphasizes dismantling societal barriers rather than focusing solely on individual impairments. His work reflects a deep commitment to disability rights, accessibility, and social inclusion. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and accomplishments, visit his full biography.